Resolution No. 1025 honors the life and legacy of Kate Barnard, a pioneering advocate for justice and equity in Oklahoma. Born on May 23, 1875, in Nebraska and moving to Oklahoma at age 12, Barnard became the first woman elected to statewide office in the U.S. as the Oklahoma Commissioner of Charities in 1907. During her tenure, she championed over thirty statutory laws that laid the groundwork for modern state departments focused on corrections, human services, and mental health. Her advocacy extended to improving working conditions, addressing child labor, and reforming prison and mental health systems, all while facing significant political opposition.
The resolution proclaims May 23 as Kate Barnard Day in Oklahoma to commemorate her contributions to justice and public welfare. It recognizes her enduring impact on future generations of advocates and public servants, as well as her commitment to integrity and compassion in public service. The resolution also directs that copies be distributed to relevant organizations, including the Oklahoma Historical Society and the Oklahoma Commission on the Status of Women, to further honor her legacy.